Converting to Christianity can seem daunting. All of a sudden, you're part of a new culture with its own rules, history, and guidebook. However, it's not as complicated as you might think.
Do you believe in Jesus Christ? The most basic tenet of Christianity is that Jesus is God's Son, sent to save the world. By becoming flesh, he experienced all the things that normal humans do -- thirst, hunger, sadness, loneliness, and fear. He allowed himself to be sacrificed to atone for everyone's sins. Through this act alone, humans can be redeemed.
When you convert to Christianity, you accept that Jesus was real and that he sacrificed himself for you. You acknowledge that you're a sinful being but that you can trust in Christ, confess your sins to him, and be sanctified.
You don't have to know every word of the Bible to convert. You don't have to be a good person or change your life before seeking redemption. In fact, scriptures tell us that our efforts at improving ourselves are useless. Only through Jesus can we truly change.
There are no ceremonies to go through or tests to pass to convert. You must simply ask Jesus to be your savior. Acknowledge that he is God-made flesh and that through him, everyone can be redeemed. Confess your sins and ask Christ to wash you clean of those sins. After repenting, ask God to help you change your life.
The Bible tells us that once we accept Christ, we become new people. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we learn that "if any person is in Christ, that person is a new creature: the old things are gone; behold, all things have become new." All that requires is acknowledging Christ, asking him into your life, and putting your faith in him.
Once you start your new journey as a Christian, you'll want to find a church family. Being part of a church will help you to grow into your faith. You'll have a pastor to answer your questions and offer guidance. Remember that this isn't required for conversion. Scripture tells us that it's God's wish for us to be part of a church. However, church membership does not offer salvation.
